Jackson Claims Second Straight Class 4A Boys’ State Title with Buzzer-Beater Over Plainview

BIRMINGHAM, AL – Jackson High School’s Isaiah Gladney delivered a clutch shot in the final seconds to secure a 44-42 victory over Plainview in the 2025 AHSAA Class 4A boys’ basketball championship at the BJCC’S Legacy Arena. The dramatic win marks Jackson’s second consecutive state title. 

Game-Winning Moment 

With the game tied at 42-42 and 10 seconds left on the clock, the Aggies inbounded the ball. Dysen Adams received the pass and quickly advanced up the court. Splitting Plainview’s defenders, he found Gladney near the basket. Gladney banked in the shot with just 0.8 seconds remaining, clinching the championship and sending the Aggies’ fans into a frenzy. 

“We were going to run a high middle screen for a three-pointer or pass it to Keeyun (Chapman), but Isaiah took the opportunity and made the shot,” said Head Coach Anthony Hayes. 

 

Tight Matchup 

Jackson (23-4) appeared dominant early, building a 26-10 halftime lead. Plainview (30-7), however, stormed back in the third quarter with an 18-8 run, narrowing Jackson’s lead to 34-31 heading into the final period. 

The Bears tied the game at 40-40 late in the fourth quarter after Owen Hope nailed two free throws with 2:07 remaining. After Jackson regained the lead with Keeyun Chapman’s emphatic dunk, Sawyer Wilborn responded with a quick layup to bring it back to 42-42. Both teams turned the ball over on ensuing possessions, leading to Jackson’s game-winning sequence. 

Key Performances 
  • Isaiah Gladney: Scored eight points, including the game-winning basket. 
  • Joseph Taylor: Named Class 4A Tournament MVP after recording 13 points, four assists, and three steals. 
  • Keeyun Chapman: Notched 10 points, eight rebounds, and two blocks. 
  • Roderick Hamilton: Contributed nine points, all coming off three-pointers. 

For Plainview, Wilborn led all scorers with 21 points, while Hope added eight points and seven rebounds. 

Coach Speak

Coach Hayes praised his team, saying, “This season, we flew under the radar, but our players stuck together and executed when it mattered most. Isaiah’s shot is one that Jackson will never forget.” 

Plainview’s Head Coach Cade Willingham, a two-time state champion as a player, reflected on his team’s efforts. “We had our chances. Credit to Jackson—they played like champions when it mattered.” 

Jackson’s win solidifies their status as a powerhouse, earning back-to-back state titles, while Plainview remains a formidable contender, owning four championships since 2018. 

The AHSAA state tournament will culminate with the finale of Class 5A, 6A, and 7A title games on Saturday.

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